AutoCodes – Generic – B12AE

B12AE Code - Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground

Quick Answer

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) Module contains the passenger heated seat control button and indicator. Common causes include Faulty Heater Seat Relay, Faulty Heater Mat, Heater Mat harness is open or shorted. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means: B12AE indicates Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Heater Seat Relay, Faulty Heater Mat, Heater Mat harness is open or shorted.
Severity: Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?: The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

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Code Popularity 1,264

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 29, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B12AE Description

The Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) Module contains the passenger heated seat control button and indicator. The heated seat system functions independently from the climate control system. A heated seat relay is located underneath the passenger seat cushion frame. There are 2 voltage supplies to the heated seat relay. Voltage is supplied from the Smart Junction Box (SJB) heated seat relay enable circuit to the passenger heated seat relay coil when the engine is running. The ground is supplied to the opposite side of the passenger relay coil by the HVAC module from the passenger heated seat relay drive circuit when the passenger heated seat switch button is pressed to energize the relay. This closes the relay contacts to supply battery voltage from the SJB circuit to the passenger heater mat circuit. The passenger heater mats are directly connected to ground circuit completing the electrical circuit to heat the seat.

OBDII Code B12AE - Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground - AutoCodes.com — B12AE Code - Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B12AE?

Faulty Heater Seat Relay
Faulty Heater Mat
Heater Mat harness is open or shorted
Heater Mat circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) Module

How to Fix the DTC B12AE?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B12AE code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B12AE code?

Need more information on how to fix the B12AE code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B12AE code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B12AE Ford — Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground
B12AE Lincoln — Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground
B12AE Mercury — Passenger Heated Seat Relay Drive Circuit Open Or Shorted to Ground

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B12AE Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B12AE?

- Common symptoms include a non-functioning passenger heated seat, illuminated warning light on the dashboard, and possible issues with the seat's heating system.

2. What causes the OBDII code B12AE to trigger?

- This code is triggered when the PCM (powertrain control module) detects an open or short circuit to ground in the passenger heated seat relay drive circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of the OBDII code B12AE?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the wiring and connections related to the passenger heated seat relay, testing the relay itself, and inspecting the seat heating elements for any damage or faults.

4. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code B12AE?

- Repair tips may include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, replacing a faulty relay, and addressing any issues with the seat heating elements.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code B12AE active?

- It is generally safe to drive with this code active, but it's important to address the underlying issue to restore the functionality of the passenger heated seat and prevent any potential electrical problems.

6. Can I fix the OBDII code B12AE issue myself, or do I need a professional mechanic?

- Depending on your skill level and experience with automotive electrical systems, you may be able to troubleshoot and repair the issue yourself. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable working with electrical components, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

7. Are there any common mistakes people make when trying to resolve OBDII code B12AE?

- Common mistakes include overlooking simple wiring issues, failing to properly test the relay, and misdiagnosing the problem as a seat heating element failure.

8. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code B12AE at a repair shop?

- The cost of fixing this code can vary depending on the specific issue, the labor rates of the repair shop, and whether any parts need to be replaced. It's best to get a diagnostic assessment from a trusted mechanic for an accurate estimate.

9. Will resetting the OBDII code B12AE clear the issue permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but if the underlying problem is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It's important to diagnose and fix the root cause of the issue to prevent it from recurring.

10. Can the OBDII code B12AE affect other systems in the vehicle?

- While this code specifically relates to the passenger heated seat relay drive circuit, electrical issues in one part of the vehicle can sometimes have secondary effects on other systems. It's important to address the issue promptly to avoid potential complications.